Brewing Methods

and Vietnamese Coffee Recipes

Vietnamese coffee is beloved not only for its unique flavor profiles but also for the traditional brewing methods and creative recipes that have emerged from the country’s vibrant coffee culture. In this section, we’ll explore the art of brewing Vietnamese coffee using the iconic phin filter, as well as delve into some delicious specialty drink and dessert recipes that showcase the versatility of Vietnamese coffee.

Traditional Phin Filter Brewing

The phin filter is the most common and traditional method for brewing Vietnamese coffee. This small metal drip filter, which sits atop the cup, allows for a slow and steady extraction of the coffee, resulting in a strong and flavorful brew.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Place the phin filter on top of your cup.
  2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee to the phin.
  3. Gently tap the phin to settle the coffee grounds, then place the press on top of the grounds and apply gentle pressure.
  4. Pour a small amount of hot water over the press to allow the coffee to bloom, then fill the phin with hot water.
  5. Place the lid on top of the phin and wait for the coffee to drip slowly into the cup. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Once the coffee has finished dripping, remove the phin and enjoy your Vietnamese coffee.

 

Tips and techniques:

  • Use a medium to coarse grind for the best extraction.
  • Experiment with the amount of coffee and water to find your preferred strength.
  • Pre-heat your cup with hot water to maintain the coffee’s temperature.
  • For a creamier texture, add sweetened condensed milk to the cup before brewing.

THE RECIPES

Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Vietnamese iced coffee, known as cà phê sữa đá, is a refreshing and indulgent treat that combines the strong, bold flavor of Vietnamese coffee with the sweetness of condensed milk and the cooling sensation of ice.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
  • Ice cubes
  • Hot water

 

Instructions:

  1. Add the sweetened condensed milk to a tall glass.
  2. Brew the Vietnamese coffee using the phin filter as described above, allowing the coffee to drip directly onto the condensed milk.
  3. Stir the coffee and condensed milk together until well-combined.
  4. Add ice cubes to the glass and serve immediately.
Ethical

Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Egg coffee is a luxurious and creamy specialty drink that combines the robust flavor of Vietnamese coffee with the richness of whipped egg yolks and the sweetness of condensed milk.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 egg yolk
  • Hot water

 

Instructions:

  1. Brew the Vietnamese coffee using the phin filter as described above.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk together until light and frothy.
  3. Pour the hot brewed coffee into a cup.
  4. Gently spoon the egg mixture on top of the coffee, creating a creamy layer.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the decadent, dessert-like drink.

Vietnamese Salt Coffee

Salt coffee is a unique Vietnamese specialty that enhances the natural flavors of the coffee by adding a pinch of salt to the grounds before brewing.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee
  • Pinch of salt
  • Sweetened condensed milk (optional)
  • Hot water

 

Instructions:

  1. Add a small pinch of salt to the ground Vietnamese coffee before placing it in the phin filter.
  2. Brew the coffee using the phin filter as described above.
  3. If desired, add sweetened condensed milk to the cup before brewing for a creamy and sweet flavor.
  4. Serve the salt coffee hot, and enjoy the enhanced, well-rounded taste.

Vietnamese Coconut Coffee

Coconut coffee is a refreshing and tropical twist on traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, blending the bold flavor of coffee with the creamy sweetness of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup of coconut milk
  • Ice cubes
  • Hot water

 

Instructions:

  1. Brew the Vietnamese coffee using the phin filter as described above.
  2. In a blender, combine the brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and ice cubes.
  3. Blend until smooth and frothy.
  4. Pour the coconut coffee into a tall glass and serve immediately.
  5. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top.

Vietnamese Yogurt Coffee

Yogurt coffee is a delightful and creamy beverage that layers the bold taste of Vietnamese coffee with the tangy sweetness of yogurt and condensed milk.

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 tablespoons of ground Vietnamese coffee
  • 2-3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup of plain yogurt
  • Hot water

 

Instructions:

  1. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the bottom of a tall glass.
  2. Spoon the plain yogurt on top of the condensed milk, creating a separate layer.
  3. Brew the Vietnamese coffee using the phin filter as described above, allowing the coffee to drip directly onto the yogurt layer.
  4. Serve the yogurt coffee with a long spoon, encouraging the drinker to mix the layers together as they enjoy the beverage.

Vietnamese COFFEE FLAN

Coffee flan is a luscious and creamy dessert that combines the rich, bold flavor of Vietnamese coffee with the smooth, velvety texture of a classic caramel flan.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of brewed Vietnamese coffee
  • 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can of evaporated milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • Water

 

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns into a golden caramel. Pour the caramel into ramekins or a large baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brewed Vietnamese coffee, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and eggs until well-combined.
  3. Pour the coffee mixture into the caramel-coated ramekins or baking dish.
  4. Place the ramekins or baking dish in a larger baking pan filled with hot water, creating a water bath.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
  7. To serve, run a knife around the edge of the flan and invert onto a plate, allowing the caramel sauce to drizzle over the top.

Coffee Ice Cream

Coffee ice cream is a delightful frozen treat that captures the bold, robust flavor of Vietnamese coffee in a creamy and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of whole milk
  • 3/4 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 cup of brewed Vietnamese coffee
  • 4 egg yolks
  • Pinch of salt

 

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until light and frothy.
  3. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and avoid curdling.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the brewed Vietnamese coffee.
  6. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
  7. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20-30 minutes).
  8. Transfer the coffee ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Farm

COFFEE JELLY

Coffee jelly is a refreshing and light dessert that combines the bold taste of Vietnamese coffee with the cool, jiggly texture of a gelatin-based treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of brewed Vietnamese coffee
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of gelatin powder
  • 1/4 cup of cold water
  • Sweetened condensed milk (for serving)

 

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine the brewed Vietnamese coffee and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to bloom.
  3. Add the bloomed gelatin to the hot coffee mixture, stirring until the gelatin completely dissolves.
  4. Pour the coffee jelly mixture into a shallow dish or individual serving cups.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the jelly is set.
  6. To serve, cut the coffee jelly into small cubes and spoon into serving dishes.
  7. Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the top of the coffee jelly cubes for added creaminess and sweetness.